Representatives from several political parties in West Bengal met the full bench of the Election Commission of India on Monday to discuss preparations for the upcoming assembly elections.

According to a senior official, many parties requested that voting be conducted in a maximum of two phases to ensure smoother and more peaceful elections.

Leaders from parties including All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Communist Party of India (Marxist), Indian National Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, National People’s Party and All India Forward Bloc participated in the meeting with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and other election commissioners.

Several parties suggested holding the polls in one or two phases and assured the commission that they would cooperate in maintaining a peaceful atmosphere during the elections. They also urged the commission to take strict action against anti-social elements and prevent voter intimidation.

Political representatives also demanded adequate deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to maintain law and order. Some parties expressed concern over the possible use of crude bombs, illegal weapons and money during the election campaign.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said the Election Commission has a “zero tolerance” policy toward violence and will take all necessary steps to ensure free, fair and transparent elections in the state. He also noted that voters can still submit Forms 6, 7 and 8 to register or make corrections in the electoral rolls.